Honolulu, the pearl of the Pacific, has long been a dream destination for travelers worldwide. It is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and pleasant tropical climate year-round. Imagine waking up each morning, sipping fragrant coffee, and watching the radiant sunrise over the ocean from your private balcony. Surely, it would be an unforgettable experience!
This article will take you to the most luxurious resorts in Honolulu, where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty and world-class services. Let’s explore the ideal destinations for your memorable vacation in Hawaii!
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort – The Iconic Pink Palace
The Royal Hawaiian, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is a historic icon of Honolulu. Located directly on the famous Waikiki Beach, this resort not only boasts a prime location but also carries fascinating stories of the past. It was once the Coconut Grove, where King Kamehameha I celebrated his victories, and the Summer Palace of Queen Kaahumanu.
With its unique Spanish Moorish architecture, The Royal Hawaiian offers a luxurious and captivating ambiance. The hotel features 528 rooms, including 18 oceanfront suites, a high-end spa, 2 restaurants, and a bakery. A stay here will place you in the vibrant heart of Waikiki, with countless opportunities for stunning “check-in” photos.
The Royal Hawaiian aerial view with Waikiki beach stretching out
Key Amenities:
- Private access to Waikiki Beach
- Luxurious swimming pool
- Fresh flower lei greeting upon arrival
- Frette Italian bath and bed linens
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Robes, slippers
- Evening turndown service
- Malie organic toiletries
- Kona coffee and tea in room
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach – Classic Elegance
Built in 1901, Moana Surfrider is known as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” This resort is a symbol of luxury and history, situated right on the famous white sand beach. With its distinctive Victorian architecture, Moana Surfrider has been an integral part of Waikiki for over a century.
After a comprehensive renovation in 2014, Moana Surfrider presents a fresh look, harmoniously blending classic charm and modern amenities. The hotel has 795 rooms, including 36 suites with ocean-view balconies, a spacious beachfront spa, a wedding chapel, a freshwater swimming pool, and plush Heavenly Beds. Live nightly entertainment under the twinkling lights of a century-old banyan tree is a special highlight that attracts visitors.
Moana Surfrider, a resort with distinctive Victorian architecture
Key Amenities:
- Beachfront bar
- Kids’ club
- Modern workout facilities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- 32-inch LCD flat-screen TV
- Robes and slippers
- Mini-refrigerator
- 24-hour laundry service
Halekulani – House Befitting Heaven
Halekulani, meaning “house befitting heaven” in Hawaiian, is a peaceful oasis located in the heart of Waikiki. This resort spans across 5 acres of beachfront land, offering a tranquil and relaxing space amidst the bustling area.
The rooms at Halekulani are decorated in a minimalist style with seven shades of gentle white, creating an elegant and sophisticated feel. The hotel is famous for its three high-end restaurants, two cocktail lounges, and a heated pool lined with 1.2 million pieces of orchid-patterned glass tiles on the floor. Halekulani is the perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious and upscale vacation.
Halekulani's signature orchid-patterned glass tile pool
Key Amenities:
- Marble bathrooms
- Kohler soaking tubs
- Premium toiletries
- Plush bathrobes and slippers
- Private balconies
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- mp3 docking stations
- On-site laundry facilities
- Florist shop
- Complimentary fitness center with free fitness classes
- Free admission to local museums
The Kahala Hotel & Resort – Private Paradise
Located away from the bustling Waikiki area, The Kahala Resort is one of the most renowned beachfront resorts in Honolulu. Situated in the affluent Kahala community, this resort offers a private and tranquil space for guests.
With a secluded beach and a lagoon where guests can swim with dolphins, The Kahala Resort is an ideal destination for both families and couples. The spacious rooms feature private balconies with stunning views of the ocean and Diamond Head. Bathrooms are equipped with oversized tubs, smart toilets, and separate walk-in showers.
The Kahala Hotel & Resort with a secluded beach
Key Amenities:
- Bathrobes and slippers
- Luxurious Floris of London toiletries
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- 42-inch flat-screen TV
- iHome clock radio
- Mini-refrigerator
- Two telephones with data ports and voicemail
- Complimentary use of fitness center
- Evening turndown service
- Twice-daily maid service
- Daily newspaper
- In-room tea and coffee service
- 24-hour business service center
Sheraton Waikiki – Beachfront Playground
Sheraton Waikiki is a vast 31-story resort, occupying a prime location on Waikiki Beach. With 1,636 fully renovated rooms, Sheraton Waikiki is a true beachfront playground for families and couples.
The main attractions of this resort are its pools. The family-friendly Helumoa Playground features two large freshwater pools, two whirlpools, and a waterslide. For adults, the stunning infinity pool exclusively for adults is a must-visit spot for sunset views.
Infinity pool at Sheraton Waikiki with breathtaking views
Key Amenities:
- Access to Waikiki Beach
- Club level
- Kids’ activities
- Spa
- Fitness center
- Day care
- Cultural activities such as lei making, hula lessons
The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel – Great Value
Located on the eastern edge of Waikiki, The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel is the best value beachfront resort in Waikiki. The 125-room hotel is set in front of the very swimmable Sans Souci Beach.
The rooms are modern, light, bright, and have balconies with great ocean and Diamond Head views. Although there is no pool, the resort’s Hau Tree Lanai Restaurant is excellent. The hotel is within walking distance of Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo, and the Aquarium.
The New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel with ocean view
Key Amenities:
- Beachfront location
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- HDTV cable television
- Private lanais
- Full-service spa
- Laundry facilities
- Three on-site restaurants
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort – Lively Experience
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is a vibrant and bustling beachfront resort, located right on the famous soft white sands of Waikiki Beach. The resort offers easy access to surfing lessons and all water sports.
In addition to the spa, pool, and on-site Hawaiian cultural activities, the resort is home to Duke’s Hawaii, one of Honolulu’s best restaurants for mai tais and sunset viewing.
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort with central location on Waikiki beach
Key Amenities:
- 24-hour fitness center
- Laundry facilities
- Self-service business center
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Outrigger Waikiki Connection Trolley (included in resort charge)
- Hawaiian vow renewal ceremony
- On-site retail shops
- Restaurants
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort – Amenity “Village”
With more than 90 retail shops, 20 bars and restaurants, five pools, a spa, the Starlight Luau, and Friday-night fireworks, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort deserves to be called a “village.”
This sprawling Honolulu beachfront resort has 3,386 rooms, perfect for families with kids. There’s something for everyone here: turtles and parrots, koi ponds, a mini-zoo, a fitness center, spa, Hawaiian cultural activities, live music, and more. Best of all, the resort is right on the beach and has its own saltwater lagoon for paddling.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort – Family Friendly
Located on the quieter end of Waikiki Beach, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is a great option for families. The resort’s location is convenient, right on the beach, close to Honolulu’s best shopping, and lots of restaurants.
Most rooms have balconies with stunning ocean views. The resort offers free hula and ukulele lessons, as well as water sports like surfing, outrigger canoeing, and catamaran sailing.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort with oceanfront pool
Key Amenities:
- 24-hour fitness center
- Laundry facilities
- Self-service business center
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Outrigger Waikiki Connection Trolley (included in resort charge)
- Hawaiian vow renewal ceremony
- Spa
- On-site retail shops and restaurants
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach – Modern Luxury
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach is a luxurious and modern resort, renovated in 2017. The rooms feature private balconies and sweeping ocean and Diamond Head views.
A standout feature of the hotel is its 280,000-gallon oceanarium. The hotel also has a full-service spa, saltwater infinity pool, kids club, children’s pool, and a full fitness center with tennis courts and yoga classes. Foodies will love the two restaurants by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto.
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach with modern design and large aquarium
Key Amenities:
- Welcome drink upon arrival
- Private cabanas
- Malie Organics bath amenities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Refrigerator
- 50- or 55-inch flat-screen HDTV
- In-room safe
- Unlimited local and 60 minutes free international calls
- Keurig Brewers with complimentary K-pods coffee and tea
- Fitness center with locker rooms, tennis courts, and group fitness studio
- Refillable, eco-friendly water bottles
Conclusion
Honolulu is a fantastic destination for those wanting to enjoy a luxurious and memorable vacation. With luxury beachfront resorts, you can relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience world-class services. Hopefully, this article has provided you with useful information to choose the most suitable resort for your stay in Hawaii. Wishing you a joyful and memorable trip!